Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry is urging Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to take decisive action regarding the recently released Commission of Inquiry (COI) report, which examined the controversial appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Chaudhry claims that if Rabuka is genuinely committed to restoring integrity within his administration, he must disclose the report and implement its pivotal recommendations.
The establishment of the commission followed significant public backlash against Malimali’s appointment, which has raised concerns about the credibility of FICAC. The extensive 400-page report was delivered to both the President of Fiji and Prime Minister Rabuka two weeks ago. While Rabuka has indicated that he is seeking legal advice, Chaudhry argues that the public is entitled to a timely explanation of the inquiry’s findings.
With the integrity of FICAC at stake, Chaudhry has stated that Malimali’s continued position is untenable. “Her credibility is in tatters. She must be removed to restore confidence in FICAC,” he asserted, emphasizing the necessity for swift action.
This call for action comes in a context where there have been growing calls for an independent Board of Inquiry into Malimali’s appointment. Commentary from various political analysts has highlighted the importance of such an inquiry, noting that it could provide the transparency and accountability that the public demands. Opposition MP Premila Kumar underscored this sentiment, referencing past missteps by the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), particularly in the prior appointment of John Rabuku as acting Director of Public Prosecutions, which was later ruled invalid.
Crossbench MP Mosese Bulitavu has also affirmed the need for clarity, celebrating Rabuka’s intention to act but urging him to ensure public perception of independence during the inquiry process.
Overall, the situation surrounding Malimali’s appointment, coupled with public demand for transparency and accountability, presents an opportunity for the government to regain trust amidst the ongoing scrutiny. The actions taken in the coming days could set a precedence for how allegations and administrative decisions are handled moving forward, underscoring the importance of leadership integrity in government institutions.
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